A little kingdom I
Where thoughts and feelings dwell,
And very hard I find the
Of governing it well;
For passion tempts and troubles me,
A wayward will misleads,
And selfishness its shadow
On all my words and deeds.
How can I learn to rule myself,
To be the child I should,
Honest and brave, nor ever
Of trying to be good?
How can I keep a sunny
To shine along life's way?
How can I tune my little
To sweetly sing all day?
Dear Father, help me with the
That casteth out my fear;
Teach me to lean on thee, and feel That thou art very near,
That no temptation is
No childish grief too small,
Since thou, with patience infinite,
Doth soothe and comfort all.
I do not ask for any
But that which all may
Nor seek to conquer any
Except the one within.
Be thou my guide until I find,
Led by a tender hand,
Thy happy kingdom in
And dare to take command.
